By
RIAHN SMITH

Echuca residents will have access to new midwifery beds and a 30-bed surgical ward following the completion of stage one of the hospital's multi-million dollar redevelopment.

The first stage of the $65.6 million project has also delivered a 24-bed sub acute ward and new medical imaging facilities.

Victorian Premier Denis Napthine and Health Minister David Davis visited the Murray River town on Tuesday to officially open the facility.

At the launch, Echuca Regional Health board of management chairwoman Mary Boek praised the community for campaigning for better health services.

"In early 2010, our community banded together and developed a campaign that attracted media and political attention to the urgent need to redevelop the Echuca Hospital," Ms Boek said.

"Today, we are opening the first stage of our redevelopment. When the total redevelopment is completed in August next year, we will have 114 hospital beds, 70 per cent more than currently, and a 23-bay emergency department.

"We can be assured this new hospital has been built for the current and future needs of our community."

Dr Napthine said the opening was a major milestone for the hospital and said the next phase would continue to revolutionise health service delivery.

“The redevelopment of Echuca Regional Health is an important project that will deliver 21st century healthcare facilities for the local community well into the future,” Dr Napthine said.

“Focus now moves onto the second stage of works that will include the expanded emergency department, a six-bed short medical assessment and procedure unit and upgrades to maternity services,” Mr Davis said.

The Commonwealth Government provided $25.6 million towards the $65.6 million redevelopment, with local volunteer group ‘Make Your Mark’ setting a fundraising target of $2.4 million for the hospital.

Member for Rodney Paul Weller paid tribute to the community for it's record-breaking fundraising effort.

“This is a great project that will make a huge difference for our community.”